You need something on those cooler days to provide a little extra warmth. We're not talking full on winter protection, just a thin enough layer to allow the muscles to function without the cold seeping in.
Using a mix of nylon and Lycra the Polaris Venom leg warmers are very stretchy with a smooth finish. The material feels thin but is effective. The stitching on the seams is thick but not intrusive so you have no rough edges irritating the skin. There is a small reflective element otherwise Polaris have gone for a simple finish.
The problem you can get with some leg warmers is their inability to stay in place. The last thing you need is your leg warmers slipping down so you're riding along doing an impression of Nora Batty.
The gripper elastic on the Venoms is really effective. There is no chance of these leg warmers going south. The hold is so good you need to roll the gripper over and pull them into place before flipping it back. Either that or risk losing skin or hair depending on your preference for shaven legs! On longer rides, make sure you adjust them otherwise the gripper is so effective it will leave marks.
The final piece of good news is if you feel warm enough to remove them, they won't take up much room in your pockets. The nylon/Lycra combination allows them to be packed down really compactly. At £21.99 they offer good value at a reasonable price.
Polaris Venom leg warmers are an ideal second layer to ward off chill winds but beware the gripper. You can suffer on long rides!
road.cc test report
Make and model: Polaris Venom Legwarmers
Tell us what the product is for, and who it's aimed at. What do the manufacturers say about it? How does that compare to your own feelings about it?
An extra layer is useful on fresh days or morning and the Venom leg warmers from Polaris keep your pins comfortable.
Tell us some more about the technical aspects of the product?
The mix of materials allow for a smooth, stretchy finish which is easy to wear and lightweight.
Rate the product for quality of construction:
8/10
The gripper used to keep them in place is almost too effective. On a long ride when the legs are in use a lot, any extra movement over a prolonged period can become uncomfortable.
Rate the product for performance:
8/10
They pack up very small whilst able to perform in all but the coldest of temperatures.
Rate the product for durability:
8/10
I've used them on many occasions and they are well made and sturdy.
Rate the product for weight, if applicable:
9/10
Not only do they pack up into a compact size they weigh very little.
Rate the product for comfort, if applicable:
7/10
They are really comfortable, you can easily forget you are wearing them if only the gripper wasn't quite so harsh.
Rate the product for value:
8/10
They are reasonably priced for a lightweight set of leg warmers. Whilst not a heavy duty pair they do serve a purpose and do it effectively.
Tell us how the product performed overall when used for its designed purpose
They work well as a second layer to keep out the chill. Once you've finished with them they pack down well and can be easily slotted into a pocket.
Tell us what you particularly liked about the product
They are lightweight but still work well.
Tell us what you particularly disliked about the product
The gripper is a bit severe over a long period.
Did you enjoy using the product? I did but would struggle if I had to use them over too many long rides.
Would you consider buying the product? Perhaps
Would you recommend the product to a friend? I would certainly say they are worth looking at.
Anything further to say about the product in conclusion?
Almost a very useful addition to my spring wardrobe.
Age: 44 Height: 178cm Weight: 80kg
I usually ride: Currently riding a Pinnacle Evaporite Three My best bike is: As above
I've been riding for: 5-10 years I ride: Every day I would class myself as: Experienced
I regularly do the following types of riding: road racing, commuting, sportives, mtb, Not yet but looking to dip my toe in the world of TT
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